By
Shelby G. Floyd
The word “music” is a generic term and includes vocal and instrumental music. It occurs only one time in the New Testament. When the prodigal son returned home he heard “music (Grk-sumphonia), and dancing” (Luke 15:25). “Music” is generic and includes all kinds of musical sounds. This has no reference to a worship service, but to social activities in the home. If this one use of the word music authorizes instrumental music in worship to God, then it follows that dancing, killing the fatted calf, etc., would be included also. Since this is the only New Testament passage which uses the generic term music, and since it does not authorize instrumental music in worship, then instrumental music in worship is not to be found in this passage. And therefore instrumental music in worship is not to be found in the New Testament! Continue reading “BIBLICAL MUSIC IN CHURCH WORSHIP”